Describing him as "potentially dangerous" police warned the public not to approach Benedict OnyemaechiMetropolitan Police

A "potentially dangerous" mentally ill man has gone missing from his home, Scotland Yard said. The public should not approach according to London's Metropolitan Police.

The 48-year-old was last seen on 18 January at his home in Southgate, North London. "He is considered potentially dangerous to the public and should not be approached," police said in a statement. "In the event of an immediate sighting, do not approach him but call 999."

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has issued an order for Onyemaechi to seek an urgent medical assessment.

"Onyemaechi is thought to be unmedicated and a risk to the public," police said. "The order recalled him to the NHS North London Forensic Service for urgent assessment."

Onyemaechi is described as black, 5ft 9in tall and stocky, police said.

Met Police have asked anyone who has information about Benedict Onyemaechi's location, or could help in finding him call Edmonton police on 101. Anyone who sees him should not approach, but report the sighting by calling 999.